Discover Downtown
Neighborhood of Play
Discover Downtown
Welcome to the Neighborhood of Play—where your lifestyle is as relaxed or as energized as you want it to be. At VIDA, it all starts just outside your door. Discover art at the upcoming City Art Space, grab coffee at Fairpour, or dive into retro games and poutine at Nerdvana. Explore The Strong Museum of Play, sip craft brews at Fattey Beer, and catch live music at Lila’s twice a week.
Nerdvana
Neighborhood of Play
Nerdvana is a chic gaming-themed restaurant and bar that features custom cocktails and a scratch kitchen all under one roof! You can play the latest 4 player games, a new tabletop experience, or a retro classic all from your table. It’s the ultimate upscale nerd culture experience!
Fattey Beer Company
Neighborhood of Play
Fattey Beer Company is a bottle shop, tap room, and a craft community experience. They’re dog friendly, people friendly, and feature a large selection of craft beers, wine, cider, seltzer, sodas, non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks, as well as a world famous chicken sandwich. They also have an active Mug Club of beer enthusiasts, indoor and outdoor seating, and beer delivery.
Lila's
Neighborhood of Play
Lila’s is an all-day work and play meeting oasis for office dodgers and the perfect socializing spot for an after-work schmooze, date, happy hour, or nightcap. When the warmth of the summer fades to our cooler seasons, the lobby fireplace roars and the seats surrounding it are in high demand. Lila’s accomplished cocktail and beverage stewards serve seasonal cocktails, playful small plates, and timeless appeal.
The Strong National Museum of Play
Neighborhood of Play
The Strong is a nationally acclaimed, interactive museum dedicated entirely to the exploration and history of play. With hands-on exhibits, immersive video-game galleries, and the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games, it inspires curiosity in every visitor—regardless of age.
City Art Space
Neighborhood of Play
City Art Space is Rochester’s dynamic gallery and creative hub, curated by RIT’s College of Art and Design. Featuring rotating exhibitions from emerging and established artists, this urban venue hosts public events and provides a fresh, inspiring lens on contemporary art and design.
FairPour Coffee Roasters
Neighborhood of Play
COMING SOON! Fuel your day (or night) at FairPour Coffee Roasters—coffee shop by morning, bar by evening.
Geve Theatre
Downtown Rochester
Geva Theatre is Rochester’s premier regional theater, known for bold performances and original productions in an intimate setting. From classic dramas to groundbreaking new works, Geva delivers powerful, professional theater that’s right in the heart of downtown.
The Little Theatre
Downtown Rochester
The Little is Rochester’s legendary art house cinema, showcasing independent, foreign, and documentary films since 1929. With five screens, a café, and live music nights, The Little is where movie lovers and creatives come together.
Rochester Red Wings
Downtown Rochester
The Rochester Red Wings are the Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals and a beloved hometown team. Catch a game at Frontier Field and enjoy America’s pastime with family fun, fireworks, and classic ballpark eats.
Rochester Americans (Amerks)
Downtown Rochester
The Rochester Americans, or Amerks, are the AHL affiliate of the Buffalo Sabres and a staple of Rochester’s sports scene. With fast-paced hockey and a loyal fan base, Amerks games at Blue Cross Arena are a thrilling night out.
Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO)
Downtown Rochester
The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra brings world-class symphonic music to the city, from classical masterworks to innovative pops concerts. Based at Kodak Hall, the RPO is a cultural cornerstone with performances that inspire and uplift.
Rochester International Jazz Festival
Downtown Rochester
The Rochester Jazz Fest is an annual summer celebration that showcases a wide range of jazz and related genres, featuring world-renowned performers alongside emerging artists across multiple venues, from intimate clubs to outdoor stages. It creates a lively, walkable festival atmosphere filled with concerts, jam sessions, and community events.
Rochester Public Market
Downtown Rochester
The Rochester Public Market has been a community staple since 1905, offering fresh produce, local goods, and international eats every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. With over 300 vendors and a buzzing atmosphere, it’s a vibrant mix of tradition, flavor, and culture.
Rochester Broadway Theatre League (RBTL)
Downtown Rochester
The Rochester Broadway Theatre League brings the magic of Broadway to Rochester through its Broadway In Rochester series. Hosted at the historic Auditorium Theatre, RBTL features world-class touring productions—from blockbuster musicals to critically acclaimed plays.
Party in the Park
Downtown Rochester
Jam out to a diverse lineup of live music every Thursday in summer, just steps from home at MLK Jr. Park.
Movies with a Downtown View
Downtown Rochester
Get cozy under the stars and enjoy outdoor film screenings with Rochester’s iconic skyline as your backdrop.
Yoga on the Riverway
Downtown Rochester
Unwind with a peaceful yoga session along the scenic Genesee River, enhanced by the playful company of goats and puppies.
Food Truck Fridays
Downtown Rochester
Savor delicious eats at Food Truck Fridays in Washington Square, where a rotating lineup of gourmet trucks feeds your lunch cravings.
Sunset Sips
Downtown Rochester
Sip, socialize, and enjoy live music at monthly happy-hour gatherings as the sun goes down in the Neighborhood of Play.
Fall Fest
Downtown Rochester
Get festive with pumpkin decorating, fall activities, and seasonal fun at a community festival celebrating autumn vibes.
ROC Holiday Village
Downtown Rochester
Glide into winter at ROC Holiday Village—enjoy ice skating, holiday lights, shopping, and seasonal cheer in downtown Rochester.
Midday Bash
Downtown Rochester
Take a break during your day with midday live music and entertainment in downtown Rochester’s public spaces.